This beautiful lakeside town 1 hour from Toronto has the 'best' quality of life in Canada
It has dreamy beaches and restaurants.
A small town near Toronto.
If delicious restaurants, dreamy lake views and charming streets sound like your kind of vibe, this town near Toronto might be your dream destination. The lakeside gem offers an array of activities, just under an hour away from the city, and was named among the best in Canada for its quality of life.
We asked Narcity Canada readers to weigh in on which Canadian places offer the best quality of life, and this charming lakeside town made the list.
Oakville is a quaint destination nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario. According to Visit Oakville, it offers "picturesque harbours, vibrant shopping districts, active arts community and some of the best dining options in the Greater Toronto Area," making it a beautiful place to call home.
The downtown boasts charming local shops filled with clothing, jewelry and more, so you don't have to head to the big city to get your shopping done.
If you're a foodie, Oakville is the place to be. The town has over 200 restaurants to visit, ranging from quaint brunch spots to cozy cafes and stunning waterfront patios.
There's no shortage of things to do in the town. You can enjoy art galleries, museums, a drive-in theatre, an arcade, and community events, making it a fun and vibrant destination no matter the season.
One of Oakville's draws is its natural areas. The town offers more than 3,200 acres of parkland and open space, complete with trails, swimming opportunities and more.
You can also enjoy two beaches — Coronation Park and Bronte Beach Park, and the scenic waterfront, which is perfect for catching a sunset.
According to Invest Oakville, "in Oakville, quality of life is not just an expression, it is a reality and ranks right near the top as one of the main reasons business leaders, owners and employees choose our community to work and to live."
Some highlights of life in Oakville include its "culture, restaurants and shopping," safe neighbourhoods and educational institutions.
Living in Oakville doesn't come cheap. According to Zolo, Oakville's average house price in July 2025 is $1,427,242.
If you're looking for a new spot to call home, readers say Oakville is among the spots that offer the best quality of life in Canada.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.